A tour around the 64th edition of Salone del Mobile

This episode of Monocle on Design takes listeners on a vivid tour of the 64th edition of Salone del Mobile in Milan, spotlighting innovative design, sustainability, and the human experience. Host Nick Meneese shares highlights from interviews with leading creatives, including Argentinian designer Christian Mohaded, whose chair 'Corsetto' for Molteni draws inspiration from waste materials and the human body’s movement. He emphasizes deep engagement with production processes, visiting factories and collecting discarded materials to inform his work. George Yabu and Glenn Pushelberg discuss their collaboration with emerging brand Extraordinario on the 'Elemento' collection, blending craftsmanship with quiet gravitas and a focus on material authenticity. Milan-based Spanish designer Patricia Urquiola reflects on her prolific career and her new sauna concept 'Balua,' inspired by medieval fortifications and designed to foster mental and physical well-being. The episode closes with a deep dive into the 'Renaissance of the Real' installation by Annabel Schneider and Snowheaders, a sensory-rich, temporary space using USM furniture and kinetic textiles to counter digital saturation, encouraging presence, breath, and connection with nature. The episode underscores design as a deeply human, tactile, and reflective practice.